Page 102 of The Princess and Her Grand King

Why couldn’t they just leave her to her dreams?

Beautiful, sweet dreams of her and her Beloved.

Here in this world of warmth and light, there was no pain, no misery.

Here their bond was alive and flourishing.

Here she could feel his presence even when he was far from the fortress.

Here she felt everything in his heart, not just his pain but also his happiness. His love.

In this world, her belly was full and rounded, carrying their child. A child who brought even more sunshine into their already radiant world.

Her Belovedglowedwith joy, untouched by the sorrow of grief and loss.

Emeriel did not want to wake from this idyllic dream.

If crossing over to the other side brought dreams like these, perhaps she should have crossed long ago.

It was beautiful. It was—

“Wake up, Princess. Open your mouth,” Madam Livia’s voice drifted into her dreams.

Not this again.

“Go away…” she tried to shout, but the words came out a garbled mumble.

“She’s overdue for her medication,” the head maid's voice chimed in, “but lately, she locks her jaw tight, refusing any disturbance.”

Blessed silence returned.

Emeriel relaxed, grateful.Thank heavens—

“Wake up, dearling.” A strong, gentle hand caressed her cheek.

Her heart stirred at the familiar voice.What was he doing outside her dreams?

Here, in this fuzzy half-world, he sounded closer… more real.

Perhaps she’d open her eyes for just a moment.

Bright light assaulted her vision.

Nope. Emeriel quickly squeezed her eyes shut.

“Draw the curtains closed, Livia,” her Beloved ordered.

“But she needs cool air—”

“Do it,” he insisted.

The sound of rustling curtains followed. The room dimmed. Then the wonderful silence.

Cautiously, she opened her eyes again, one at a time.

Her vision was blurry, but as she blinked, her male's face slowly came into focus.

“Hello, Princess,” he groaned, his fingers caressing her cheekbones.

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